A flame in your pocket?

Apart from using it to light fire, a lighter is sort of a style statement for many, and a few turn collectors. With so many varieties of fancy lighters available in the market, some even encrusted with diamonds, rubies and other precious stones, it also makes for a great gift. The first lighters that were invented used gunpowder, but in 1823, Johann Wolfgang Döbereiner invented a lighter that used Hydrogen gas and a platinum metal as a catalyst to produce heat. Since then, there have been many iterations and improvements, with electric lighters available now, too. If you fancy expensive and limited edition lighters, here are the five costliest lighters in the world.

Jadeite Ashtray and Lighter

With an exterior made of pure silver, no doubt the Jadeite lighter makes it to the number one spot. Another special and convenient thing about it is that the lighter can be separated from the ashtray if you wish to take it around. It’s rare and royal and can be a collector’s delight.

Price $37,000

Zippo windproof lighter  

It is the most expensive lighter ever manufactured by Zippo. This air and wind resistant lighter was a treat to the customers on Zippo’s 75th anniversary. It’s light-weight and a complete delight!

Price $79,000

S.T. DuPont Ligne 2 Lighter

This 5.2 karat diamond encrusted lighter is the most royal of all. It also comes with a matching coloured pen. It was made in four colours — silver, gold, white and rose gold.

Price $65,650

Faberge yellow enamel

This yellow enamelled lighter was handmade by Vladimir Soloviev in the 1990s. The exterior is smooth and the design graceful. It was once sold at $65,650 at an auction in 2011, making it the most expensive lighter to be ever sold at an auction.

Price $136,000

Faberge Imperial table lighter

This lighter is pure class. It can be carried around in the pocket and can also be used on the table, making it the perfect gifting option for anyone. It was designed in the shape of a monkey and is silvery in colour.